RESULTS OF VOTE ANNOUNCED, NEW HAVEN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS AGREES TO NEW CONTRACT

(10/13/2009) NEW HAVEN- The membership of the New Haven Federation of Teachers voted today for a new contract with the City of New Haven that will support and promote New Haven’s aggressive school reform initiative. The contract covers Fiscal Year 2010-2011 through 2014-2015 and both parties agreed to a list of changes in the areas of: wages, healthcare, evaluations and work rules.

“We are pleased to announce that New Haven Federation of Teachers has voted in favor of this new agreement,” said Mayor John DeStefano, Jr. “This new contract positions the New Haven Public Schools to implement aggressive school reform initiatives that will truly catapult our schools to becoming the best urban school district in the nation. Together we’ve placed a District-wide priority on student achievement as the center-point of activity and accountability. This contract demonstrates the collaborative nature of these initiatives and our ability to work together in the best interest of the children of our City.”

"This is a great new day for New Haven Public Schools. We're excited about the cooperation and agreement we've achieved," said Mayo. "The main theme that has resonated throughout these negotiations has been that we are all truly committed to moving New Haven students to the next level and really prepare them to excel in school and in life.”

“This contract recognizes the professionalism of teaching while also considering the need to make responsible financial decisions in these economically challenging times,” said DeStefano.

The new contract now requires approval by the New Haven Board of Aldermen.

Additional details will be made available at a news conference held at New Haven City Hall (2nd Floor Atrium) tomorrow at 10 a.m.